Shine’s final moments (fanfic)

As another pointless meeting of these “noble” humans unfolds before me, I find my mind preoccupied with other thoughts. How many innocent Arcadians are dying right now in the war I helped facilitate, while I sit in comfort indulging in Minotaurian delicacies? When I made my oath to the McGarys I truly believed I could help guide them towards a brighter future, one without the terror of Scoria the Red. However, as the war continues to wage on I’ve begun to worry that I will kill just as many, if not more, than Scoria herself. I can justify my actions with any number of excuses, but it does not change the truth of the matter. In some small capacity, the same threat the Dragonsbane weapons once held over my race, I now bring to the humans. I do not regret my decision, but I can’t help wondering if there was another way. 

I take a large swig of the fermented drink before me, hoping my human form’s ability to become intoxicated will help distract my mind. I constantly remind myself that my oath will not last forever, in a few generations I will be free to seek penance for my actions. Perhaps I will track down Luna one final time and isolate myself with her; she understands my oath in a way no one else ever could. Regardless, I still hold some semblance of hope for change in the near future. My patrons are growing in power and in number, and Flicker appears neutral for the time being. My only concern is for my master Imrik, and that sly demon he tries to keep hidden away. Who knows what-

Something’s wrong. My vision is blurring, and I can hear the sounds of screaming as humans begin collapsing to the ground besides me. I try to turn towards the Queen but my body refuses to move. Countless thoughts are racing through my head as I begin to recognize this may be my end. This must be the work of poison to affect so many, including a dragon, so quickly. Should I revert to dragon form to regain my constitution? No, in such an enclosed space that would condemn everyone I swore to protect to death. I cast command and try to bellow an order of “vomit” at the Queen, but my mouth does not open and no noise comes from my throat. It’s too late, I am powerless. 

Great mother Martha, if you still listen to the prayers of dragons I beseech you to hear my final plea. I pray that my aura of luck bonus may save even a single life on this day. I pray that you protect the innocent souls of this war-torn land. I pray you stop these conniving humans from spiraling further into darkness, continuing to justify their bloody conquests. I spent a lifetime trying to undo the evil and sins of the past, I beg that the dark times that birthed such horrors are not allowed to pass again. I may deserve this fate, but they do not. Please O’ Martha, I pray that you protect these creatures from themselves…